Classical

Класика

Bach: Partitas Nos. 1 - 6, BWV 825 - 830 by Glenn Gould

Partita No. 6 in E minor, BWV 830 - II. Allemande (Remastered 2022, Version 1957)

New York Herald Tribune (piano version)

Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky - Suite From The Nutcracker. Pas de deux

This is perhaps the most popular piano transcription of Bach’s well known chorale, by English pianist Myra Hess.

J.S. Bach/Hess, Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring

The first in Erik Satie's acclaimed Gnossienne trilogy.

Satie Amazon
https://www.amazon.com/Erik-Satie-Essential-Collection/dp/B00J0LBFIG/

Satie iTunes
https://music.apple.com/gb/album/erik-satie-the-essential-collection/918615441

Best of Satie
https://play.google.com/store/music/album?id=Bditbkfgfdqvxx7hansrl6qhy4y

Satie Compilation
https://open.spotify.com/album/0vzKMInu4PzU2Qyi6NgmRK

Erik Satie Album
https://www.deezer.com/us/album/7540311

Best of Satie Playlist
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mk2SNcpTNbs&t=68s

Erik Satie The Essential Collection

🎥 VIDEO

Gnossienne  No.1

Gymnopédie No. 1 - Erik Satie - 2 HOURS Classical Music For Studying

Claude Debussy’s Clair de Lune is the third movement of his Suite Bergamasque, written for solo piano and completed in 1905. The title, meaning “Moonlight,” is inspired by Paul Verlaine’s poem, evoking a serene and reflective atmosphere. The piece epitomizes French Impressionism, focusing on mood and imagery over traditional form.
Structure and Atmosphere

The piece is in ternary form (ABA):

    Opening (A):
    A soft, flowing melody emerges over delicate arpeggios. The music feels weightless, like moonlight shimmering on water. Debussy uses rich harmonies and seventh chords to create a dreamlike quality, with a tender, introspective mood.

    Middle Section (B):
    The dynamics intensify, with fuller textures and soaring melodic lines. This section brings a sense of emotional depth and urgency, contrasting with the calm opening. Arpeggios cascade dramatically, giving the impression of moonlight suddenly brightening or revealing hidden beauty.

    Closing (A):
    The opening material returns, slightly varied, fading into a gentle, whisper-like conclusion. The piece ends as quietly as it began, leaving a sense of stillness and wonder.

Musical Features

    Harmonics: Debussy’s use of whole-tone scales, parallel chords, and non-functional harmony creates a suspended, ethereal soundscape.
    Melody: The lyrical melody floats effortlessly above the accompaniment, expressing both simplicity and emotional depth.
    Texture: Light, transparent textures alternate with moments of lush, resonant fullness, embodying the interplay of light and shadow.

Mood and Interpretation

Clair de Lune evokes the quiet magic of a moonlit night, combining serenity with subtle melancholy. Its poetic quality invites listeners to imagine moonlight reflecting on a calm lake, whispering through trees, or illuminating a tranquil landscape. The music feels timeless, blending stillness with fleeting moments of intensity.

Cultural Impact

This iconic piece has been widely used in films (Ocean’s Eleven, Twilight) and pop culture, often accompanying scenes of romance, nostalgia, or quiet reflection. Its universal appeal lies in its ability to evoke deep emotion while remaining understated.
Performance Notes

Expressive dynamics, fluid phrasing, and careful pedaling are essential to capturing its delicate atmosphere. A balance between freedom and control ensures its dreamlike flow remains intact.

Clair de Lune is a masterpiece of impressionistic music, celebrated for its ability to transport listeners into a realm of quiet beauty and introspection.

Claude Debussy - The Essential Collection

Clair de Lune

Clair de Lune - Debussy

Lamentations Of The Heart

Performed by Austin Shyu and Park Cho Hyun

 Make sure to turn down the volume a bit (top right hand corner of page)

The Swan - Camille Saint Saens

Swan Lake (Tchaikovsky)

Miika's Journey

I am an amateur pianist with an ongoing passion for this musical instrument.  These are some favourite pieces, performed on a Yamaha Disklavier grand piano.

J.S. Bach/Hess, Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring

DavidR